New Brunswickers challenged to perform small acts to help overcome poverty

The Sackville Tribune Post

Published: Oct 12, 2017 at 10:25 a.m.

New Brunswickers are being challenged to perform small acts to help overcome poverty.

FREDERICTON, N.B. – An awareness campaign, Small Acts, Big Impact, challenges New Brunswickers to choose a small but meaningful act of volunteerism to help overcome poverty in the province.

The campaign, led by the Economic and Social Inclusion Corporation, continues throughout the month of October.

While some large challenges may seem overwhelming, this campaign demonstrates how small, powerful actions can make a collective impact. It aims to inspire more people to help reduce poverty while also teaching them about the daily challenges faced by people living in poverty.

“Individuals, non-profit organizations, businesses and governments can accomplish great things by working together to help improve the lives of all New Brunswickers,” said Tourism, Heritage and Culture Minister John Ames, who is also the minister responsible for poverty reduction and the Economic and Social Inclusion Corporation. “Poverty reduction is a collective responsibility, and engaging New Brunswickers from all sectors to participate in this positive campaign will result in a tangible contribution to the promotion of economic and social inclusion.”

By visiting smallacts.ca, participants can choose their own small act, such as reading to a child, joining a food box program or volunteering for a ride-sharing program. They can also find contact information for local organizations that are looking for help, volunteers or donations. Participants are encouraged to take photos of their acts and share them on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram or the campaign website.

Over the past seven years, there have been several initiatives led by the 12 Community Inclusion Networks, which are regional groups dedicated to grassroots economic and social inclusion. The networks have led more than 400 projects supported by almost $5.5 million, with nearly 90,000 people participating. For every dollar invested by the corporation, communities have contributed over three dollars.

This initiative is in line with the New Brunswick Family Plan framework, which focuses on seven priority areas, including poverty reduction.